Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Get the taste of Olive Garden’s famous Pasta e Fagioli soup at home with this delicious and easy-to-follow Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in, this dish brings rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and a delightful aroma to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, this soup is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with pasta, beans, and vegetables, it’s a meal that satisfies hunger.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite veggies or proteins for a unique twist.
• Comforting Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a warm, comforting taste that feels like a hug in a bowl.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup seamlessly, gather your tools ahead of time. Having everything ready ensures smooth cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch Oven or Large Pot
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch Oven or Large Pot: Ideal for cooking soups because they retain heat well and allow even cooking.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without damaging your counters.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accuracy in your ingredients, which is crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.

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Ingredients

To create this delicious Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Pasta

• 1 cup Ditalini pasta

Vegetables & Aromatics

• 5 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 onion (diced)
• 1 cup carrots (chopped)
• 3 stalks celery (diced)

Proteins & Legumes

• 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 15 oz red kidney beans (rinsed/drained)
• 15 oz Great Northern Beans (drained/rinsed)

Liquids & Seasonings

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 16 oz tomato sauce
• 15 oz diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• salt/pepper (to taste)
• 1 cup water

How to Make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Boil water in a large pot. Cook the Ditalini pasta according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and crumbly. Once cooked through, set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in minced garlic, diced onion, chopped carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, dried basil, salt/pepper to taste, Italian seasoning, cooked sausage, and 1 cup of water into the pot.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to meld flavors.

Step 6: Add Beans and Pasta

Stir in both types of beans along with the cooked Ditalini pasta. Mix well until heated through.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and enjoy your homemade Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup!

This recipe serves about eight people—great for family dinners or meal prep!

How to Serve Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Serving Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup pairs well with several side dishes and garnishes that enhance its flavors.

Garnish Options

• Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese – Grate some Parmesan cheese over the soup for a rich, savory finish.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread – Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping; it’s perfect for sopping up the delicious broth.
• Salad – A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the soup’s robust flavors.

Presentation Ideas

• Soup Bowls – Use rustic bowls for an authentic Italian feel. This adds charm to your table setting.
• Table Setting – Arrange your table with elegant utensils and cloth napkins to create a cozy atmosphere.

How to Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Ingredients – Use high-quality chicken broth for depth of flavor. Homemade broth is even better!
• Proper Cooking Time – Allow the soup to simmer adequately so all flavors meld beautifully together.
• Vegetable Freshness – Opt for fresh vegetables; they add vibrant flavor compared to canned options.
• Bean Variety – Experiment with different types of beans if you want to switch things up. Each adds unique texture.
• Storage Tips – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread topped with garlic butter makes a delicious side that complements the soup.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduce add a light touch.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice and veggies provide a hearty option alongside the soup.
5. Zucchini Fritters – Crispy fritters made from zucchini are a tasty way to enjoy vegetables on the side.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Classic grilled cheese pairs perfectly, delivering comforting flavors alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing the vegetables enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this step; cook them until they are tender for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you overcook the Ditalini pasta, it may become mushy in the soup. Cook it al dente and add it to the soup just before serving.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Always taste the soup before serving. Each ingredient varies in flavor, so adjust salt and pepper based on your preference.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is key to the soup’s flavor. Opt for a high-quality chicken broth for the best results, or make your own if possible.
• Adding beans too early: If you add beans too soon, they can become overly soft. Add them just a few minutes before serving to maintain their texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated thoroughly.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes! You can substitute other beans like black beans or pinto beans based on your preference.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to make Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick meal.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. It’s versatile enough for customization with different vegetables or protein options. We encourage you to try making this delicious soup at home!